The Asian Liver Center conducts many international health projects and campaigns that focus on global elimination of hepatitis B and liver cancer. Working with a diverse group of dedicated partners, the Asian Liver Center continues to serve as a leader in developing awareness campaigns, education programs, screening and vaccination projects, among other global outreach activities.
Philippines
 |
Panelists at an event in the Philippines speak about the prevalence of Hepatitis B, its relation to liver cancer, and liver cancer causes and prevention. |
 |
Dr. So presenting to the hepatitis B perintal coordinators in Metro Manila on May 7, 2009. |
In September 2006, the ALC in collaboration with the American Cancer Society established a partnership with the Philippine Cancer Society, the Philippine Department of Health, and the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology to help address the disproportionately high prevalence of hepatitis B and liver cancer in the Philippines. Currently this collaboration is attempting to implement effective strategies in preventing hepatitis B through government health policies, such as updating national newborn vaccination guidelines and increasing public awareness.
In 2007 Republic of the Philippines Senator Pia Cayetano introduced Senate Bill 1060 (National Liver Cancer and Hepatitis-B Awareness Month), which designates the month of February of every year as “National Liver Cancer and Hepatitis-B Awareness Month” in order to draw and raise public attention and awareness about liver cancer and Hepatitis-B and the urgency to prevent and control the disease. In 2008, Senator Cayetano introduced Senate Bill 1654 (Mandatory Hepatitis-B Immunization), which is an act requiring mandatory basic immunization services against hepatitis B for infants, amending for the purpose of Presidential Decree No. 996. Senator Cayetano also introduced Senate Bill 2012, the"Mandatory Hepa-B Immunization Act," which expands the national immunization program by making basic immunization services against hepatitis B mandatory for infants within 24 hours from childbirth. The measure has passed the Senate but is still waiting for the House's final version.
In May 2009, Dr. So gave a presentation to the hepatitis B perinatal coordinators in Metro Manila, Philippines. The ALC will be working with the Metro Manila Health Department to develop informational resources for health care providers and pregnant women in Manila. Dr. So also met with Senator Cayetano in May 2009. The ALC commends Senator Cayetano for her unwavering effort in the fight against hepatitis B and liver cancer.
Last Updated: July 15, 2009
